Accenture LearnVantage and IIT Madras’s CAAR Collaborate to Skill Talent for Software-Defined Vehicles
#Accenture #IITMadras #CAAR #LearnVantage #DigitalTransformation“Our collaboration with CAAR at IIT Madras is a game-changer, focused on transforming talent at scale for OEMs and GCCs in the sector.” - Kishore Durg, Global Lead, Accenture LearnVantage
July 2025 : Accenture and the Centre of Excellence in Advanced Automotive Research (CAAR), a research society established by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), have announced a collaboration to offer specialized skilling programs through Accenture’s LearnVantage Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) Academy.
This initiative is designed to address the critical talent shortage faced by automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Global Capability Centers (GCCs) as vehicles rapidly transform into sophisticated software-defined machines. The program aims to bridge the gap between traditional automotive roles and the advanced digital skills required for developing automated driving technology, advanced driver assistance systems, electrical/electronic architecture, connectivity, and infotainment systems.
The comprehensive curriculum, tailored for automotive technology practitioners at OEMs and GCCs, incorporates domain-specific modules, interactive learning environments, and expert coaching. Delivery will be a blend of self-paced learning and instructor-led sessions by IIT Madras faculty. Key modules will cover advanced Internet of Things, embedded systems and software, vehicle safety, communication protocols, cybersecurity, edge computing, cloud virtualization, and industry standards such as AUTOSAR and ASPICE.
According to an Accenture Research estimate, the software-defined digital services market is projected to reach an astounding USD 3.5 trillion and account for 40% of global automotive industry revenues by 2040. Recognizing this immense potential and the accompanying skills gap, Accenture LearnVantage launched its SDV Academy to provide specialized training.
Kishore Durg, Global Lead, Accenture LearnVantage, emphasized the transformative nature of the partnership: “As vehicles transform into sophisticated software-defined machines, the automotive industry requires digital-native talent skilled in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and safety systems. Our collaboration with CAAR at IIT Madras is a game-changer, focused on transforming talent at scale for OEMs and GCCs in the sector. Together, we are committed to rapidly upskilling and reskilling talent to embrace technological advancements and develop the interdisciplinary skills needed for the SDV landscape.”
Prof. Krishnan Balasubramanian, Professor in Charge, CAAR, IIT Madras, highlighted the unique model: “The academia-industry partnership, enabled by the Center of Excellence CAAR is a unique model that creates a win-win for all parties and enables upskilling of the next generation workforce in new areas such as SDVs. We are delighted to be partnering with Accenture’s LearnVantage.”
Thiruppathy (Thiru) Srinivasan, Chief Executive Officer, CAAR, IIT Madras, further added: “The automotive industry is rapidly evolving with the adoption of electrification, connectivity, and advanced smart technologies. The high-growth software-defined vehicle space demands both new digital skills and a larger pool of skilled professionals, making upskilling a top priority. Our collaboration with Accenture LearnVantage offers a synergistic platform to bridge the talent gap by equipping professionals with the competencies needed to thrive and meet the industry’s evolving needs.”
This collaboration underscores a significant step towards developing a future-ready workforce for the evolving global automotive landscape, driven by the convergence of automotive engineering and advanced software technologies.
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